Our Work

Transforming agri-food systems and creating job opportunities around the world.

MEDA is an international economic development organization that creates business solutions to poverty.

Since 1953, our programs and investments have contributed to the transformation of agri-food systems in more than 80 countries. We’ve worked with over 3 million entrepreneurs and businesses, and have improved the lives of millions more.

Our work proves it: strengthening agri-food systems boosts job growth.

With the contributions of our supporters and partners, we connect growing agribusinesses like farms and food processors with the tools, financing, and market access they need to thrive.

When these businesses grow, they create dignified jobs and feed communities. This transforms the entire agri-food system, driving long-term economic change.

Together, we're turning agricultural potential into lasting opportunities.

Our programs have a track record of success in:

Fueling business growth and strengthening local systems

Building systems that facilitate opportunities for women and youth

Building resilience to climate challenges

In communities facing limited opportunities, MEDA works with local partners to transform agri-food businesses into a source of sustainable, decent jobs.

“Systemic change is never the work of one person alone. It requires investor backing of key people who have the knowledge, resources, connections, and business acumen needed to help lift others around them in any circumstances.”

– Dr. Dorothy Nyambi, President & CEO, MEDA

We multiply impact through investments.

As one of the world’s longest-running impact investing initiatives, the MEDA Risk Capital Fund (MRCF) creates positive social and environmental outcomes alongside financial returns. The MRCF has been working since the 1950s, and it continues to grow businesses that lift people out of poverty.

Every dollar in the MRCF returns to MEDA and is reinvested in another global business.

The MRCF is currently invested directly or in funds in 10 countries, keeping our impact alive in the regions we work for future generations.